Durrës is Albania's chief port. Located on the shores of the Adriatic, Durrës is a lively town, organized around beach culture.
Understand
[edit]In parts Durrës is attractive and well maintained. In others it is somewhat ramshackle, with both active and what appears to be abandoned development co-existing next to each other. To some degree, this is a feature of Durres geology. The area is in a tectonically active zone, with extremely unstable geology. The next earthquake will cause the ground to undergo liquefaction again, and much of the new development will have to be pruned back once more, before regrowing. Still, the city is alive. There are abundant shops, retail stalls and street traders. They appear to trade from early morning until late and provide an attractive "always on" vibe to the city.
It has ferries to Bari and Ancona in (Italy) and bus connections to other Albanian and international destinations, often via Tirana.
Alternative spellings of the city's name are Durazzo (Italian), Drač (Драч, Serbo-Croatian) or Dyrrhachion (Δυρράχιον, Greek).
Get in
[edit]By boat
[edit]
- 1 Ferry Terminal (Terminali i Trageteve).
From specific destinations:
- Bari (Italy) – Adria Ferries, , GNV Ferries, Azzurra Line ferries[dead link] and Ventouris Ferries
- Ancona (Italy) – Adria Ferries, Azzurra Line ferries[dead link]
- Trieste (Italy) – Adria Ferries
By bus
[edit]If arriving to Durres by bus, make sure that you get off before the bus turns onto the highway going south towards Golem. The highway is very difficult to turn around on, and if you end up significantly south of Durres proper, it will be very difficult to find a taxi that can take you back into Durres, and it'll cost a fortune. Remember, ride share apps do not work in Albania as of 2025.
- 2 Bus Terminal (Stacioni I Autobuzave). Buses and furgons from Tirana usually arrive at this bus terminal with the "Durrës" logo on the outside near the old railway station. There are also some international connections and a direct airport bus.
- 3 Plepat Bus Station (At the southern end of the promenade/beach. Take a local bus from the City Bus Terminal to get here.). This is the bus station where buses from Tirana and most southern destinations, like Berat (450 lek), will stop to drop off passengers. Most buses will not head into the centre of Durrës. This is the only place with regular connections heading south.
From specific destinations:
- Tirana – The buses depart from the Northern Bus Station in Tirana near the Casa Italia shopping center. The ride takes around 45 min and costs 180 lek (Dec 2024). The bus operates daily every 30 min from 06:30 to 19:30.
- Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza – The buses all depart south of the airport terminal. It should go every 1–2 hr. Price (Dec 2024): 600 lek.
- Skopje (North Macedonia) – Buses run through Durrës on their way to Tirana. A typical Skopje-Tirana ticket costs around €25 return.
- Kumanovo (North Macedonia) – There is a daily direct bus line to Durrës. The cost of tickets is around €20.
- Pristina (Kosovo) – During the summer season there are several buses a day. You should check the timetables at the Pristina bus station, but in 2013 the timetable was as follows; 04:00, 05:00, 06:00 and 06:30 and then at 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00 and 23:00. There are at least a couple of buses going back at 16:00 and 17:00. Return ticket costs about €20. The trip takes around 4–5½ hr, depending on whether it goes via Prizren. Buses ran by Artiti Tours depart and arrive from the 4 Rrota e Kuqe stop by a roundabout near the middle of Rruga Pavaresia street running parallel, and very close, to the beach. Tickets can be booked online at Gjirafa or Autobus.al. The bus stop can be reached on foot in about ½ hr from the city centre. Alternatively, take a taxi (about €8) or use a bus running along Rruga Pavaresia from the city centre.
By car
[edit]There is a road between here and Tirana, the SH2, which takes just over half an hour for the journey. You could fly into Tirana, then drive or get a taxi to Durrës, with the airport connecting to the SH2 by the SH60. Also from Vorë and Shijak from main roads and highways.
By commuter train
[edit]Construction is underway for 2027, from Triana to Durres, and the Airport.
Get around
[edit]
Map of Durrës
On foot
[edit]The city centre where the archaeological sites are located can be toured on foot. Durrës is a relatively compact city, so many attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, especially in the city center and along the waterfront. If you're open to a longer walk, it's easy to get all the way to South Durres from the city core, and even further south than that, until you reach a part of the beach that's owned by the Albanian military and impassable.
By bus
[edit]Durrës has a public bus system that connects various parts of the city. Public buses are orange. You can purchase tickets from kiosks or directly from the bus driver or a controller who goes around the bus to sell & check tickets. Bus schedules may vary, so it is a good idea to check in advance.
Getting to the beach area of the city
[edit]Once you arrive at the Durrës bus station, there is a small Bus traffic sign with many people. From there you can take a bus with the sign Durazzo (or Durrës) Plepa. The bus stops at several designated stops along the Rruga Paveresia boulevard, i.e. along the beach (40 lek as of 2024).
By taxi
[edit]Many taxis are available in Durrës, and they are a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're traveling to destinations not easily accessible by bus. You can find them parked everywhere on the streets with a taxi symbol on the top of their car.
Make sure to negotiate the fare with the driver or demand to go with meter before starting your journey or you will definitely be overcharged.
See
[edit]Durrës has layers of Illyrian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman, royal Albanian, communist-era and modern history. The main sights are concentrated around the old city centre, with several important coastal and religious sites further afield.
Religious sites
[edit]Churches
[edit]- Shen Lucia Catholic Church (Kisha e Shën Luçia, Saint Lucia Catholic Church), Rruga Don Nikoll Kacorri (In the city centre). Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access. Built in 1907, this is one of the main Catholic churches in Durrës. It has simple Western-style architecture combined with local Albanian elements and remains an important place for Catholic worship, community gatherings, Christmas, Easter and other religious celebrations. Free.
- Shen Gjergji Orthodox Church (Kisha e Shën Gjergjit, Saint George Orthodox Church), Rruga Vath Turja. Check locally before visiting; active church services may affect access. Built in the 19th century and closely connected to the Orthodox Christian community of Durrës. The building contains Byzantine architectural features, including traditional domes and icons. Inside, visitors can see religious paintings and decorative iconography, making it useful both for worshippers and for travellers interested in the city’s religious history. Free.
- 1 Saint Asti and Saint Paul Orthodox Church (Katedralja Ortodokse e Shën Palit dhe Shën Asti) (Near the historic centre). 07:30 - 20:00. The main Orthodox cathedral of Durrës. Built in 2001 after the revival of religious life in Albania following communism, it is considered one of the largest modern Orthodox churches in the country. It has a large central dome, Byzantine-style frescoes and is named after Saint Paul and Saint Asti, the first Christian martyr associated with Durrës. It is used for major religious ceremonies and official Orthodox Church events. Free.
Mosques
[edit]- 2 Fatih Mosque (Xhamia Fatih), Rruga Xhamia, close to the historical centre and the Roman Amphitheatre (Near the Roman Amphitheatre). Check locally; avoid prayer times if not attending worship. Built in 1503 during the Ottoman period and named after Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, known as Fatih. It is one of the oldest mosques in Albania. The mosque has suffered damage from earthquakes and wars but has been restored several times, and its minaret and design represent classical Ottoman religious architecture. Free.
- 3 Great Mosque of Durrës (Xhamia e Madhe e Durrësit, New Mosque, Grand Mosque), Rruga Aleksander Goga, Durrës (City centre, near Sheshi Liria). 06:00-09:30; visitors should avoid the busy Friday midday prayer if not attending worship. Known locally as the Great Mosque. Built in 1937, it is sometimes called the New Mosque because it was constructed later than the older Ottoman mosques. It is one of the main Islamic religious centres in the city, with a large prayer hall and modern Islamic architecture. During Islamic holidays such as Eid, it becomes an important gathering place for worshippers. Free.
Museums and galleries
[edit]- 4 [[1](https://m.facebook.com/muzeuarkeologjikDurrës/) Archaeological Museum] (Muzeu Arkeologjik), Rruga Taulantia 32 (Near the seafront promenade). Temporarily closed until sometime in 2026. The main archaeological museum of Durrës, normally focused on finds from ancient Dyrrhachium and the surrounding region. It is temporarily closed until sometime in 2026, so check locally before planning a visit.
- 5 Popular Culture Museum (Muzeu i Kulturës Popullore), Kavaje village, Rruga Skuraj (S 18 km). Check locally before visiting. Small local museum connected with traditional culture and daily life in the Durrës region. It may be useful for visitors interested in rural customs, folk objects and local heritage, but opening times should be checked locally.
- 6 World War II Relics Hall. Check locally before visiting. Small collection or hall connected with World War II memory in Durrës. Verify access and opening times locally, as information may be limited.
- Koloseo Art Gallery. Check locally before visiting. Gallery showcasing work by local painters and artists. Useful for visitors who want to see contemporary visual art in Durrës beyond the archaeological and historic sights.
Ancient and medieval monuments
[edit]
- 7 Durrës Amphitheater (Roman Amphitheatre of Durrës), Rruga Kalase (In the old city centre). Check current opening hours before visiting. The largest Roman amphitheatre in the Balkans and the best-known ancient monument in Durrës. It includes restored iconography, underground passages below the seating area and a central grassy arena. It is one of the most important places for understanding the Roman layer of ancient Dyrrhachium. Ticket required.
- 8 Durrës Ancient City Wall (Kalaja e Durrësit, Byzantine and Venetian walls), Rruga Sotir Noka (Next to the Amphitheater). Open public area. Surviving sections of the ancient and medieval walls of Durrës, close to the amphitheatre and old city centre. Around the walls are other historic features, including the Medieval Hammam and the Tophane Well. Free.
- 9 Venetian Tower (Rotonda, Kalaja) (Near the old city walls and central promenade). Check current opening hours before visiting. Circular defensive tower in the city centre, built in the 16th century and associated with the Venetian fortifications of Durrës. Visitors can climb steep stairs to the top and see a multimedia presentation projected inside the dome. Ticket required.
- 10 Shen Mehilli Hill (Kodra e Shen Mehillit, Saint Michael Hill, Basilica of Saint Michael), Arapaj, Durrës (About 5 km southeast of central Durrës, near Arapaj). Open archaeological area; check access locally. Hill and archaeological area associated with the early Christian Basilica of Saint Michael, a 5th- or 6th-century site with mosaic remains. The area is also linked with the 1081 battle between Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos and Norman leader Robert Guiscard.
- 11 Byzantine Forum (Macellum) (Near the city centre). Open public archaeological area. Built in the 5th century AD, the Byzantine Forum, also known as the Macellum, preserves remains of the ancient public space of the city. Public baths are around and beneath the Alexander Moissi Palace of Culture area. Free.
Historic residences and villas
[edit]
- 12 King Zog's Villa (Vila e Zogut, Royal Villa of Durrës), Rruga Kont Urani (On top of a hill overlooking the city). Usually closed or irregular access; check locally before visiting. Former royal summer residence of King Zog, completed in 1937. It stands on a hill above Durrës and is known for its views over the bay, Italian Rationalist architecture and role in Albania's royal and 20th-century political history. The building has been damaged and interior access may be restricted, but the walk up is worthwhile for the façade and panorama.
- 13 Aleksandër Moisiu House-Museum (Shtepia Muze Aleksandër Moisiu, Alexander Moissi Museum House), Rruga Kolonel Tomson, Durrës (In the historic centre, near the amphitheatre and Byzantine walls), ☏ +355 52 223 150. Usually M-F 08:00-15:00; check before visiting. Rare surviving 19th-century urban house in Durrës, associated with actor Aleksandër Moisiu. It has functioned as a house-museum and ethnographic museum, with displays on local daily life, folk clothing, household objects and Moisiu's life and career.
- 14 Old Doors Trail (Path of Doors, Shtegu i Dyerve të Vjetra), Old city centre, Durrës (Self-guided walking route through old Durrës), ☏ +355 67 613 3262, [email protected]. Self-guided; contact MuZEH Lab for guided visits. Heritage walking route through old Durrës focused on historic doors, family houses, courtyards and urban memory. Stops include old family houses and historic residences such as Villa Tedeschini, as well as streets around the older parts of the city.
Civic buildings and other landmarks
[edit]- 15 Municipality (Bashkia), Sheshi Liria, 15 (On the main central square). Exterior view only unless visiting municipal offices. Municipal building on Sheshi Liria, one of the main civic spaces of central Durrës. It is useful as a landmark when navigating between the mosque, amphitheatre, Venetian Tower and old city streets. Free.
- 16 Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) (SE 5 km, near Golem). Open public landmark. Historic landmark in Golem where caravans once passed along the ancient Via Egnatia. It is traditionally linked with a battle between Pompey and Julius Caesar and is also a useful coastal landmark south of Durrës. Free.
Old villages and rural heritage
[edit]- 17 Arapaj, Arapaj, Durrës (About 5 km southeast of central Durrës). Open village area; archaeological access may vary. Village southeast of Durrës known for the nearby Basilica of Saint Michael and early Christian mosaic remains. It is useful for visitors interested in the rural edge of ancient Durrës and archaeological sites outside the city centre.
- 18 Shetaj, Shetaj, Durrës County (North of Durrës, on the way toward Cape of Rodon). Open village area. Village in the northern coastal hinterland of Durrës County, useful as a base or stop when visiting Cape of Rodon, Rodoni Castle and nearby rural landscapes. It is better for visitors with a car.
Natural and coastal landmarks
[edit]- 19 Lalzit Bay Area (Gjiri i Lalëzit, Lalëz Bay) (N 27 km). Open coastal area. Long sandy bay north of Durrës, known for quieter beach areas, pine-backed coastline and access to Ishem Castle and Rrushkull Nature Reserve. It is best reached by car and is popular for beach stays outside central Durrës. Free; beach facilities may charge in season.
- 20 Rrushkull Nature Reserve (Rezervati Rrushkull), Rrushkull, Durrës County (North of Durrës, near Lalzit Bay). Open natural area; access conditions may vary. Coastal wetland and nature reserve near Lalzit Bay. It is mainly useful for visitors interested in quiet landscapes, birdlife, lagoons, dunes and natural areas outside the city.
Further afield
[edit]
- 21 Rodoni Castle (Kalaja e Rodonit), Cape of Rodon (Cape of Rodon, north of Durrës). Open historic area; check road and access conditions. Ruined coastal castle at Cape of Rodon, traditionally associated with Skanderbeg. The site combines history, sea views, coastal walking and nearby religious heritage, and is best reached by car from Durrës.
- 22 Scanderbeg Castle (Sebastia's Castle, Kalaja e Skënderbeut), Rruga e Sebastes, Laç village (N 33 km). Open historic area; check locally. Historic castle site near Laç village. It is outside Durrës city and works best as a further-afield excursion for travellers exploring northern coastal and inland heritage sites.
- 23 Shen Ndout Church (Kisha e Shna Ndout, Church of Saint Anthony), Rruga Kisha e Shna Ndout, Laç (Near Laç, north of Durrës). Active religious site; check pilgrimage and service times. Important Catholic pilgrimage church near Laç. It is outside the city but can be combined with other northern excursions from Durrës, especially for visitors interested in religious sites and Albanian pilgrimage traditions. Free.
Learn
[edit]- The Museum of Martyrs and Hall of War Relics on Rruga Aleksander Goga has a sizable public library on the second floor, with books in many European languages. The focus is definitely more on kids books than not, but it's still a good resource for anyone who needs to do some research or just stay entertained. As of 2025, the hours were 08:00-16:00.
Do
[edit]- 1 Culture Palace, Bulevardi Dyrrah. Events
- Evening walk (promenade). Go for an evening walk along the sea front promenade or along the beach.
- 2 Villa Hill (Kodra e Viles), Rruga Currila. Panoramic view of Durrës seaside at Currilat from top of a newly reclaimed hill.
- 3 Seaside Large Steps (Shkallet tek Brryli), Intersection between Rruga Currila and Rruga Taulantia (Brryli area). Sit and admire the sea from up close on these large steps descending into the water
- Football: KF Teuta[dead link] play soccer in Kategoria Superiore, the country's top tier. Their home ground is Niko Dovana Stadium, capacity 12,000, one km north of the ferry port.
Beaches
[edit]
- 4 Lalzit Bay Beach (Gjiri i Lalzit), near Hamallaj village (25 km north of Durrës). Popular weekend retreat and exclusive wealthy beach area. A small resort can be found here.
- 5 Portez Beach (Plazhi Portez), Bishti Palles (13 km north of Durrës). Nice beach, bar, and wooden bungalows north of Currilat
- 6 Golem beach (Plazhi Golemit/Mali i Robit), Golem, Mali Robit, Kavaja Rock (Shkembi i Kavajes) (follow SH4 and enter secondary road at Plepat roundabout (SH56, SH85) or continue along SH4 and exit at Golem/Mali Robit exit). This is the main seaside resort south of Durrës with long sandy beaches popular among Albanians and foreigners alike. Tirana inhabitants have their beach houses and villas in the area for weekend and summer retreats.
Diving
[edit]- 7 Sea Resort of Golem, Diamma Resort, Rruga Kompleksit (S 7 km), ☏ +355 69 666 1555. Take a dip in the Adriatic Sea water in the biggest sea side resort of Golem.
Events
[edit]- 1 Durrës International Biennale of Contemporary Art (DIBoCA), Lagja 12, Rruga Abaz Çelkupa, Durrës (Near the city centre), ☏ +355 69 472 7490, [email protected]. Biennial; check the official website for current dates. Biennial contemporary art exhibition supported by the Municipality of Durrës. It brings Albanian and international artists to the city through exhibitions, workshops, talks, and contemporary visual art projects.
- 2 International Music Festival of Chamber Music (Chamber Fest Durrës), Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral, Durrës (In the historic centre). Usually in July; check the current programme. Annual chamber music festival held in Durrës since 2006. It brings Albanian and international instrumentalists together for classical concerts, often in historic venues such as Saint Lucia Co-Cathedral.
- 3 Festival Days in Durrës (International Music Festival Festival Days in Durrës), Durrës city centre (Performances are usually held in public squares and cultural venues), ☏ +359 62 621541, [email protected]. Usually in early July; check the EAFF calendar. International music, folklore, and dance festival with parades, stage performances, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups from different countries.
- 4 Durrës Fest (International Festival Durrës Fest), Durrës city centre (Usually around central public spaces and performance venues), ☏ +359 62 621541, [email protected]. Usually in July; check the organiser's current dates. International folk, music, and dance festival focused on cultural exchange. Groups from different countries perform traditional and modern dances, choral music, orchestral music, and majorette programmes.
- 5 Festival Days in Albania (International Folklore Festival Durrës), Durrës city centre (Usually around central performance areas and nearby hotels), ☏ +389 78 700 619, [email protected]. Usually in late June; check current dates before travelling. International folklore festival for folk groups, choirs, orchestras, majorette teams, and modern dance groups. The programme usually includes parades, performances, and optional sightseeing around Durrës.
- 6 Durrës Sunset (International Music and Folk-Dance Festival Durrës Sunset), Durrës beach area (Usually based around beach hotels and public performance spaces), ☏ +389 71 376 151, [email protected]. Usually in September; check the organiser's current dates. International music and folk-dance festival for children's, youth, and adult ensembles. The programme usually includes a city parade, public performances, a gala evening, and sightseeing.
- 7 Dances in Durrës (International Festival Dancing in Durrës), Durrës city centre (Usually around public squares and cultural venues), ☏ +359 62 621541, [email protected]. Usually in September; check the EAFF calendar. International dance and folklore festival with parades, evening performances, cultural walks, and music groups from different countries. It is aimed at dance ensembles, choirs, folklore groups, and modern dance groups.
- 8 Summer Stars of Durrës (International Competition and Festival of Arts Summer Stars of Durrës), Durrës city centre (Check the organiser's current venue). Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in August 2024. International arts competition and festival for soloists, ensembles, and young performers. It includes dance, choral, orchestral, modern, pop, jazz, hip-hop, and majorette categories. Confirm current editions before planning a visit.
- 9 Roots of Durrës (Roots of Durrës: Folk Traditions Festival), Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës (In the old city centre), ☏ +389 75 491 218, [email protected]. Irregular; last confirmed edition found was in June 2025. Folk traditions festival that has brought international folklore ensembles to perform in Durrës, including at the ancient amphitheatre. Confirm whether a current edition is scheduled before travelling.
- 10 Festa e Ullirit (Olive Festival), Durrës city centre (Usually held around central cultural venues). Usually in late October; check local announcements. Local festival celebrating the olive harvest and Durrës' connection with olive cultivation. It usually includes music, performances, local traditions, and honours for notable citizens.
- 11 Art Explora Festival, Port of Durrës, Durrës (At the port quay). Occasional travelling festival; held in Durrës in April 2025. Travelling Mediterranean cultural festival with a museum boat, exhibitions, immersive experiences, talks, performances, workshops, concerts, and film screenings. It visited Durrës in 2025, but future stops should be confirmed from the official programme. Free admission or reservation-based depending on activity.
- 12 Durrës International Film Summerfest (Durrës International Film Festival), Durrës Amphitheatre, Rruga Kalase, Durrës (In the old city centre). Historical event; check local cultural announcements for any revival. International film festival founded in 2008 and historically held in Durrës, including at the amphitheatre and other cultural venues. Recent regular editions could not be confirmed, so do not rely on old official websites.
- 13 Vox Baroque (International Baroque Music Festival), Durrës city centre (Venues may vary; past performances have used heritage sites). Irregular; check current announcements. Early music festival focused on Baroque repertoire and historical instruments. It has included Durrës among its Albanian heritage destinations, but current local dates should be verified before travelling.
- 14 Balkans Joint Conference and Exhibition, Grand Blue Fafa Resort, Durrës (South of central Durrës, near the beach resort area). Usually announced by edition; check the official conference website. Regional professional conference and technical exhibition for the water supply and wastewater sector. It brings together utilities, experts, companies, and public institutions from the Balkans. Registration required.
Buy
[edit]- Kokomani Wine— Albanian wine produced by Kokomani Winery, known for red and white wines made from local and international grape varieties. Bottles of wine and homemade raki are commonly sold in wine shops, supermarkets and souvenir stores in Durrës, and are popular gifts for visitors.
- Souvenirs— Tourist souvenirs sold throughout Durrës include magnets, postcards, Albanian flag items, handmade jewelry, miniature amphora decorations and locally crafted gifts inspired by the city’s Roman and coastal heritage.
- Sea Souvenirs— Shops near the beach sell seashell decorations, handmade marine crafts, beach-themed ornaments and Adriatic-inspired gifts commonly bought by summer tourists.
- Household goods — Local markets and small stores offer practical household products, kitchenware, textiles and handmade wooden items used in traditional Albanian homes.
- Traditional Albanian products— Traditional Albanian products available in Durrës include olive oil, mountain tea, local honey, dried herbs, filigree crafts, handmade carpets and bottles of raki produced in different regions of Albania. Many are sold in souvenir shops and artisan markets around the city.
Eat
[edit]Budget
[edit]In the city centre
[edit]- 1 SAF - Gatime tradicionale. 09:00-15:00. Very traditional lunch menu. Every day they will have cooked something new and fresh. Prices are more than decent and food is delicious. 200-500 lek.
- 2 Sema (depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa. Make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at round about take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia; bear right onto street H.Troplini. Turn right to stay on street H.Troplini; keep straight onto road; arrive on the right; there is Sema restaurant.), ☏ +355 672033224. 07:00-23:59.
- 3 Rehat Kebab.
Around the Ventus Harbour pier
[edit]- 4 Mema House, Taulantia Street (head east on Adria Street toward J.Ballhysa Street; make a U-turn to stay on Adria Street; at the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Egnatia Promenade; at the next roundabout, take the 1st exit and bear right onto Taulantia Promenade), ☏ +355 697541068, [email protected]. 08:00-22:00.
- 5 Piceri Belvedere, Rruga Taulantia.
Near the city centre
[edit]- 6 Piceri 2 Engjejt, Rruga Hysen Myshketa. Pizza
Mid-range
[edit]- Bar Restorant Kajser (near King Zog's Villa). it offers a panoramic view of Durrës from above. Delicious ice cream combinations including baked ice cream (400 lek), spaghetti, fish and baked lamb.
- 7 Splendid Restorant, Street Egnatia (from street Adria, toward street Adria; at roundabout 1st exit onto promenade Egnatia; arrive at promenade Egnatia on the left, you can find Splendid restaurant), ☏ +355 692824222. Especially known locally for fish. Everything is fresh, tasty and served in the most professional way. Prices are slightly more than average for Albania, but for the whole experience of eating you get there it's worth every cent.
- 8 Neps (from Durrës railway station, take street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria; at the roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia. At roundabout, take the 1st exit; bear right onto promenade Taulantia; the road name changes to street of Currila and there you can find Neps restaurant), ☏ +355 694609111. 07:00-23:30. Restaurant in industrial style near the sea.
- Pastiçeri Pelikani 1, Street Pavaresia (near Hotel Adriatic), ☏ +355 683095270. You can eat different sweets.
- 9 Rooftop XV, Street Erazmi, ☏ +355 684058103, fly.Durrë[email protected]. 08:00-23:00. This restaurant has a breathtaking view from the 15th/top floor.
- 10 Restoran Tirona, SH4, Rruga Pavaresia, Durrës 2001, ☏ +355 682010358. A local's favourite, Restaurant Tirona in Durrës, it has a great selection of fresh sea-food at very affordable prices.
Splurge
[edit]- 11 Restorant Piazza (Restorant Piazza), Rruga Taulantia 1 (near the port), ☏ +355 52 237601. 08:00-23:00.
Drink
[edit]- Venetian Tower (Rotonda) bar (on top of the Venetian Tower). It offers a nice view of Durrës and its coastline.
- 1 788 cocktail bar Durrës (depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay street Adria at aroundabout, take 2nd onto promenade Egnatia; bear right, and then be right onto street H.Troplini; turn left onto street Dok Margariti; turn right onto street De Rada and then immediately turn right onto street Epidamni; turn left onto street Mosque), ☏ +355 692121788, [email protected]. Nice music, great cocktails and that seaside summer breeze. During winter instead, live music, different events and local activities. (Tower is under construction as of 2022-05-08.)
- 2 Bonsai Caffe (from Durrës railway station, go right street Adria, continuing with Martyrs street; welded with Kerol Bar), ☏ +355 674999111, [email protected]. 07:00-23:00. A nice selection of drinks and a very welcoming environment.
- 3 Portiku Wine Bar (from railway station, depart street Adria toward street J.Ballhysa, make a U-turn to stay on street Adria, at roundabout, take 2nd exit onto promenade Egnatia there at roundabout take 1st exit. Turn right at street Epidamni), ☏ +355 686080666. M-W 09:00-23:30, Th 09:00-23:00, F 09:00-23:45, Sa Su 09:00-00:00.
Sleep
[edit]- 1 Arragosta Hotel & Restaurant, Neighborhood 1, street Taulantia, Currila, ☏ +355 52 226 477, [email protected]. 4-star beachfront hotel in the Currila area offering modern rooms, a private beach area and an on-site seafood restaurant. Popular for sea views and its location near the promenade and historic center. Traditional Albanian and Mediterranean cuisine available.
- 2 Hotel Adriatik, Lagjia 13, Rruga Pavaresia, Plazh Durrës (near the beach), ☏ +355 52 260850, fax: +355 52 260855, [email protected]. Historic five-star seaside hotel located in the Plazh area of Durrës. Features a private beach, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, spa facilities, conference areas and several restaurants and bars. Popular with business travelers and summer tourists. Rooms from €100 (April 2026).
- 3 Hotel Arvi, Rruga Taulantia 16 (Center), ☏ +355 52 230403. Check-in: 12:00-22:00, check-out: 07:00-11:00. Central waterfront hotel near the city promenade and archaeological sites. Offers sea-view rooms, restaurant facilities and easy access to cafés and nightlife in the center of Durrës. Single from €60 (2014.jun).
- 4 Hotel Lido Durrës, Lagja.2; Rruga Aleksander Goga, ☏ +355 52 227941. Mid-range city hotel located near the center and port area. Offers comfortable rooms, breakfast service and convenient access to shops, restaurants and public transport. Rooms from around €50.
- 5 Hotel Nais, Lagia 1, Rruga Naim Frasheri nr.46 (from the port: 100 meters toward the town center; left on Naim Frasheri street, behind the tower). Check-out: 11:00. Three-star hotel located close to the port and town center, within walking distance of the main promenade. Known for quiet rooms and included breakfast despite its central location. Double rooms from around €40.
- 6 Hotel Pepeto, Mbreti MONUM Nr.3, Rruga Ramazan Jella, ☏ +355 52 224190. Small boutique-style hotel in the historic center near the Venetian Tower and archaeological attractions. Offers modern rooms and easy access to restaurants and cafés around the old town.
- 7 Premium Hotel Beach, Golem Long Beach 2504, ☏ +355 676041008. Modern beachfront hotel in the Golem area south of Durrës. Features restaurants, bars and evening entertainment including live DJs during the summer season. Popular with beach holiday visitors.
- 8 Crowne Plazza Durres (Central, promenade). 5 Star experience on the waterfront, promenade. Newly opened in 2026. Luxury waterfront hotel on the central promenade offering modern rooms, sea views, upscale dining and five-star facilities. Located close to beaches, nightlife and the city center.
Connect
[edit]5G available now (2026). As of Sep 2021, Vodafone has the best coverage, with 4G in Durrës, the other main towns, and highways between. One and ALB have 4G in Durrës but less coverage elsewhere. 5G has not been rolled out in Albania.
Go next
[edit]- Tirana the capital is ringed by trees and mountains. Mount Dajt has great views of the city.
- Kruje in the hills above Tirana has museums and an old castle.
- Lezhe has Skanderbeg's Tomb, panoramic Lezhe Castle and several renovated churches
- Fier is a lively seaside city, near the ruins of the ancient Illyrian city of Apollonia.
- Fushë-Krujë its near with Durrës